What is a soft shell jacket

Update:19-08-2020
Summary:

Softshell softshell fabric factory jackets fill a much- […]

Softshell softshell fabric factory jackets fill a much-needed void between lightweight insulating pieces and waterproof hardshells. They stretch for movement and breathe well, yet still offer better protection from the elements than a standard fleece or synthetic jacket. Below we break down what characteristics define a softshell, from their woven construction to the amount of weather resistance to expect. Softshells often are misunderstood as being warm, insulating pieces at most they offer modest warmth or fully waterproof they’re usually not, so we’ve detailed the major considerations in this article. And don’t be deterred by what softshells are “not.” Their balanced design makes them a go-to jacket for a wide range of activities all year round. Finally, for our top picks and buying advice be sure to check out our article on the best softshell jackets.

 

Special Yarn knit+PU silvery membrane

 

First and foremost, softshell jackets are intended for high-output activities where you’re working hard. They are made with woven nylon or polyester that is stretchy, highly breathable, and decently weather resistant. These characteristics make them ideal for climbing, biking, backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and the list goes on. Essentially, if it’s cool outside, not too wet, and you’re working hard, a softshell is a terrific outerlayer. The jackets allow enough air in and out to regulate your body heat, giving them a significant leg up on the other two shell options: hardshell jackets and rain jackets. But they offer more protection from the elements than a standard insulating midlayers like fleeces, synthetic jackets, or down jackets. Falling in that middle ground makes them a highly versatile piece that is usable in all four seasons.Most softshell jackets offer decent water resistance that can keep you dry in light to moderate precipitation.

 

It starts with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating on the exterior, which beads up and sheds raindrops, and the jacket’s hard-faced shell does a good job keeping moisture at bay. Softshells usually are not waterproof, however, and sustained rainfall will absorb and eventually soak through the woven fabric. This is one of the primary compromises in a softshell, but it doesn’t deter us from bringing it along on most outdoor adventures, and you can always bring along a packable rain shell as backup.On the other hand, some softshell jackets actually go one step further and include a waterproof and breathable membrane, just like a rain jacket. With these hybrids, you get the best of both worlds: a waterproof jacket that’s also breathable, stretchy, and has a great next-to-skin feel. Skiers and climbers in particular have embraced these jackets for active pursuits that require breathability and mobility, alongside full weather protection.

 

Two popular models are  and Patagonia Galvanized, both of which fall somewhere in between the hardshell and softshell categories. These jackets feature 3-layer builds that combine a waterproof membrane  Performance Standard, respectively with a softshell-like face fabric. The most significant downside of hardshell softshell hybrids, however, is that the waterproof layer does inhibit some breathability.The smooth face fabric on a softshell typically is wind resistant but still porous enough to allow some airflow. It’s enough where you may not feel a light breeze, but a strong gust definitely will be noticeable. This partial wind resistance is intentional because it allows you to stay cool when you’re working hard. There are, however, softshell jackets and pants that are either fully or partially windproof. Gore’s Windstopperthe same company that makes Gore-Tex waterproof products—is the most common design. A wind-blocking layer is sandwiched in-between the outer layer and inner liner. Just like with a Gore-Tex softshell, breathability is compromised but jackets with strategically placed panels of Windstopper (or comparable fabrics, including the Marmot ROM jacket, do a good job balancing windproofing while keeping you comfortable.
 

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